How can I help prevent sinusitis?

There are several ways you may reduce your chance of getting sinusitis: 

• Treat stuffiness (nasal congestion) caused by colds or allergies promptly. This can help you prevent a bacterial infection from developing in your sinuses.

• Avoid contact with people who have colds and other viral upper respiratory infections. If you do have contact with people who have these infections, wash your hands often, especially after being in contact with those who are infected. 

• Avoid cigarette, cigar and pipe smoke in your home and workplace. Smoke causes and further irritates inflamed membranes in your nose and sinuses. 

• If you have allergies, avoid the things that trigger your allergy attacks. Consider talking to your doctor about allergy shots (immunotherapy ). For more information, see the topic Allergic Rhinitis. 

• Avoid breathing dry air. Consider using a humidifier at home and work to increase the moisture in the air.